subtext gets lost in the printed word. I don't think "busting his chops" meant "put that jerk in his place." I think it was more along the lines of "I teadewd him for it." Ever see a Comedy Central Roast (not nearly as funny as the Dean Martin roasts but regardless)? My friends and I bust each others chops all the time. But it's sweet of you to stick up for Paul Dini. Overly aggressive for a third party but sweet.